Spatial Assimilation as a Socioeconomic Outcome

TLDR

The study examines patterns of ethnic and racial segregation in U.S. cities. The authors replicate earlier census tract analyses by using individual‑level data from the 1970 census. The analysis reconfirms prior results, validating spatial assimilation theory, shows that ecological biases produce conservative errors, and indicates that models based on 1980 census tract data are unlikely to yield erroneous conclusions.

Abstract

Patterns of ethnic and racial segregation in U.S. cities are examined. Specifically the authors replicate earlier analyses of census tract data in selected cities by using individual-level data from the 1970 census. Prior findings were reconfirmed thereby validating the theory of spatial assimilation and reinforcing earlier substantive Results also indicate that to the extent that ecological biases affect the pattern of results errors of substantive interpretation are conservative in nature. Thus models estimated using census tract data for 1980 (when appropriate micro information will not be available) are not likely to yield erroneous conclusions. (EXCERPT)